Celebrated table
The story
At the heart of Singapore’s vibrant hawker scene, Heng Long BBQ Chicken Rice has earned its reputation—and a 2026 Michelin recommendation—for a single, focused specialty: barbecue chicken rice. Located in the bustling Mei Ling Market & Food Centre, this stall draws lunch crowds with the unmistakable aroma of chicken roasted over charcoal.
The process is straightforward and honest. Whole chickens are marinated, then slow-grilled over glowing embers until the skin turns a deep, lacquered bronze, crackling with every bite. The meat stays juicy, infused with a gentle smokiness that sets it apart from steamed or roasted versions. Served over fragrant rice cooked in chicken stock and pandan, the dish is completed with a side of tangy, house-made chili sauce and a bowl of clear broth.
There are no frills here—just a masterful execution of a classic Singaporean staple. The Michelin inspectors noted the quality of the grilling and the balance of flavors, placing Heng Long among the city’s top street food destinations. For those in the know, it’s a lunchtime ritual: order the “whole leg” portion, add an extra drizzle of dark soy sauce, and eat standing at the stall’s small counter.
This is street food at its most refined—a humble dish, perfected through repetition and respect for the charcoal fire.
Recognition